Help Nikki Fight Endometriosis
As most of you know, we tragically lost Nikki last week to a brain aneurysm. The details of Nikki's obituary are below. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to this campaign. Please continue to pray for Nikki and Justin, and their families.
Nicole "Nikki" M. (nee Dattilo), beloved wife of Justin Leidenheimer. Loving daughter of the late Pam Miller-Slusher and Thomas (Debra) Dattilo. Dear sister of Brad (Amy Woods) Richey, Jonathan Dattilo and Alyson (Bryan) White. Cherished granddaughter of Mila Mae and the late Albert Miller and the late Martha and August Dattilo. Daughter-in-law of Larry (Carol) Leidenheimer and Kathy (Cody) Reeder. Sister-in-law of Kyle (Emily Carlson) Leidenheimer and Molly Reeder. Aunt of Connor Woods and Stella Leidenheimer. Also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Passed away on Wednesday, February 15, 2017 at the age of 42. Visitation at Frederick Funeral Home, 2553 Banning Rd. on Wednesday (Feb. 22) from 4-8pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Martin of Tours Church, 3720 St. Martins Place on Thursday (Feb. 23) at 11am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to www.gofundme.com/help-nikki-beat-endometriosis. Special condolences may be expressed at www.frederickfh.com
Nikki and Justin's Story
Nikki Dattilo had been battling an aggressive form of deep Endometriosis for the last 30 years. From her first invasive surgery at the age of 15, until her most recent ( and 12th) surgery , Nikki had been working through chronic pain. Endometriosis is a medical condition in which the lining of the uterus grows in places where it should not- along the fallopian tubes, the ovaries, and along the pelvis. This can cause the formation of scar tissue, fertility issues, and debilitating pain and inflammation. In Nikki's case, it resulted in all of the above.
Nikki and her husband Justin had been working through these surgeries hand in hand. They presented a brave face to friends and family, but the chronic pain and necessary recovery periods after these surgeries made it difficult for Nikki to work full time, especially in recent months. Nikki had been unable to work since mid October, and her surgeons prescribed a minimum of 3 months of restricted bedrest post-op after this last surgery. That meant no driving, lifting, or housework,etc. More importantly, it also meant at least six months out of work- with no income for Nikki. Despite their medical insurance, the bills for managing this condition and the surgeries required were getting ahead of them, and the bills are currently in excess of $20,000.
How You Can Help
Nikki and Justin were reluctant to reach out in this way, but there are so many friends and family who generously offered to help, and have asked what they can do. So here is the answer.
Even a small contribution can help ease the burden. Any and all proceeds will help pay bills, and a portion of any proceeds beyond the fundraising goal will be donated to Endometriosis research. Nikki was passionate about helping young women in the future avoid the pain and complications that Endometriosis would bring to their lives. There is a link below to the Endometriosis Foundation of America, which would be a benefactor.
Thank you all for your time, and your love for Nikki and Justin.
